Dual mode transportation system and method

ABSTRACT

A transportation system for use on a roadway having first and second lanes. The system has a lead vehicle adapted for travel at high speeds on the roadway and a passenger vehicle adapted for travel at high speeds on the roadway. Means for coupling the passenger vehicle to the lead vehicle while the lead vehicle and the passenger vehicle are traveling at high speeds on the roadway so that the passenger vehicle travels with the lead vehicle on the roadway is provided.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention pertains generally to transportation systems and,more particularly, to dual mode transportation systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Mass transit systems have heretofore been proposed and provided.There is, however, a need for a transportation system which is energyefficient, more cost effective, readily accessible and user friendly.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0003] In general, it is an object of the present invention to provide adual mode transportation system which utilizes conventional vehicles.

[0004] Another object of the invention is to provide a system of theabove character which conserves energy.

[0005] Another object of the invention is to provide a system of theabove character that is user friendly and readily accessible.

[0006] Another object of the invention is to provide a system of theabove character that is cost effective.

[0007] Additional objects and features of the invention will appear fromthe following description from which the preferred embodiments are setforth in detail in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008]FIG. 1 is a top plan schematic view of a dual mode transportationsystem of the present invention which includes a train of interconnectedvehicles on a roadway.

[0009]FIG. 2 is an enlarged schematic side elevational view of a portionof the dual mode transportation system of FIG. 1 taken along the line2-2 of FIG. 1 and showing a vehicle in close proximity to a train ofinterconnected vehicles for coupling thereto.

[0010]FIG. 3 is a top plan view partially cut away taken along the line3-3 of FIG. 2.

[0011]FIG. 4 is a side elevational view partially cut away of the hookand latch coupling mechanism of the present invention carried by twovehicles in close proximity for coupling together.

[0012]FIG. 5 is a top plan view taken along the line 5-5 of FIG. 4.

[0013]FIG. 6 is side elevational view similar to FIG. 4 with the twovehicles initially coupled but not yet fully secured together.

[0014]FIG. 7 is a top plan view taken along the line 7-7 of FIG. 6.

[0015]FIG. 8 is a side elevational view similar to FIG. 6 with the twovehicles securely coupled together.

[0016]FIG. 9 is a top plan view taken along the line 9-9 of FIG. 8.

[0017]FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view taken along the line 10-10 of FIG.8.

[0018]FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the guidance control system of thepresent invention.

[0019]FIG. 12 is a block diagram of the velocity control system of thepresent invention.

[0020]FIG. 13 is a top plan view, similar to a portion of FIG. 1 ofanother embodiment of the dual mode transportation system of the presentinvention.

[0021]FIG. 14 is a top plan view similar to FIG. 13 of anotherembodiment of the dual mode transportation system of the presentinvention.

[0022]FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of the extendable arm of theembodiments of FIGS. 13 and 14 taken along the line 15-15 of FIG. 14showing the arm in the retracted configuration.

[0023]FIG. 16 is a side elevational view taken along the line 16-16 ofFIG. 14 showing the arm in the extended position.

[0024]FIG. 17 is an enlarged side elevational view of the towing dollytaken along the line 17-17 of FIG. 14.

[0025]FIG. 18 is an enlarged front elevation view of the drive assemblyof the towing dolly of FIG. 17 taken along the line 18-18 of FIG. 17 andwith the dolly frame removed.

[0026]FIG. 19 is a view of the drive assembly of the towing dolly takenalong the line 19-19 of FIG. 18.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] In general, a transportation system for use on a roadway havingfirst and second lanes is provided. The system has a lead vehicleadapted for travel at high speeds on the roadway and a passenger vehicleadapted for travel at high speeds on the roadway. Means for coupling thepassenger vehicle to the lead vehicle while the lead vehicle and thepassenger vehicle are traveling at high speeds on the roadway so thatthe passenger vehicle travels with the lead vehicle on the roadway isprovided.

[0028] More specifically, the dual mode transportation system 21 of thepresent invention is for use with conventional vehicles adapted for highspeed travel alone or while coupled to one another. In a preferredembodiment, passenger buses 22 travel on a conventional primary or mainroadway 23 having multiple lanes 24, 25 and 26 (see FIG. 1). Preferably,roadway 23 is configured with at least one loop therein so that vehicles22 do not have to slow significantly or stop completely in order toreverse direction at either end of a route. A lead or first vehicle 27having front and rear ends 28 and 29 and being supported by conventionalwheels and rubber tires 31 is coupled to second and third, similartrailing buses 32 and 33. Entrained buses 32 and 33 are oriented in alinear configuration 35 with respect one another as shown in FIGS. 1-3.A fourth independent bus 34 is also shown preparing to couple to bus 33.Cooperative means 36 is carried by lead and trailing vehicles 27, 32 and33 for coupling to one another while the same are traveling on roadway23 at variable and substantially equal speeds up to legal speed limitstypical for vehicular travel on open highways. Preferably, couplingmeans 36 includes a hook assembly 37 carried by rear end 29 and a latchassembly 38 carried by front end 28 of each bus 22. To this end,vehicles 22 are preferably similar in configuration so as to besubstantially interchangeable with minimal to no modifications.

[0029] In one preferred embodiment, hook assembly 37 is mounted to rearend 29 of first or lead vehicle, such as vehicle 27. More specifically,assembly 37 includes an elongate tubular frame member 42 having proximaland distal extremities 43 and 44 as seen in FIGS. 4-10. Proximalextremity 43 is secured to or constructed integral with the bumper orframe 41 of first vehicle 27 in an appropriate manner similar to thatused for heavy-duty towing hitches. Thus, in the case of beingseparately affixed to frame or bumper 41, frame member 42 is providedwith a flange, plate (not shown) or other similar fixture by which asecure mount can be achieved. When correctly mounted, frame member 42extends rearward of rear end 29 of vehicle 27 and substantially parallelto roadway 23.

[0030] Frame member 42 is, preferably, constructed of a heavy duty metalsuch as steel which can be plated or made stainless in any conventionalmanner. In addition, frame member 42 preferably has either a square orotherwise appropriately configured cross-section and, as such, a hollowcore or channel (not shown). Thus, the thickness of the wall of framemember 42 ranges from approximately 6 to 12 millimeters, preferablybeing approximately 8 millimeters, and the channel is provided with agreater cross-sectional dimension ranging from approximately 80 to 150millimeters, preferably being approximately 100 millimeters. Framemember 42 has a length ranging from approximately 30 to 80 centimetersand, preferably, approximately 50 centimeters.

[0031] Hook assembly 37 is also provided with an elongate tubular mainmember 46 extending along a longitudinal axis which, preferably, isconstructed of a material similar or identical to that of frame member42. Main member 46 has the same cross-sectional shape and wall thicknessas frame member 42 and is similarly provided with an internal channel orhollow core 47. In addition, main member 46 is sized so as to beconcentrically and slidably or telescopically disposed within framemember 42. Thus, cross-sectional dimensions of main member 46 areslightly less than the corresponding dimensions of frame member 42.

[0032] An elongate hook arm or drawbar 48 having proximal and distalextremities 49 and 51 and extending along a longitudinal axis is carriedby and swivelably coupled to main member 46. Constructed of the samematerial as frame and main members 42 and 46, hook arm 48 is,preferably, solid and has a length ranging from 30 to 90 centimeters,preferably approximately 50 centimeters. The cross-sectionalconfiguration of hook arm 48 is preferably rectangular, having a lesserdimension ranging from 20 to 40 millimeters, preferably approximately 25millimeters, and a greater dimension ranging from 25 to 50 millimeters,preferably approximately 35 millimeters. Proximal extremity 49 of hookarm 48 is provided with a circular in cross-section transverse bore 52extending therethrough and disposed approximately 2 centimeters from themost proximal end of proximal extremity 49 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 10.Bore 52 has a diameter ranging from 25 to 50 millimeters and,preferably, approximately 35 millimeters. Distal extremity 51 of hookarm 48 carries a cee-shaped coupling hook member 53 each leg of which isprovided with a cross-sectional configuration similar to that of distalextremity 51 and which is formed integral therewith.

[0033] Coupling hook 53 is configured so that, when coupled to mainmember 46, the lower leg 54 of cee-shape hook 53 extends distally fromthe end of distal extremity 51 of hook arm 48 with the concave portion56 of coupling hook 53 oriented towards frame 41 of first vehicle 27. Assuch, the back or vertical portion 57 of the cee-shape of coupling hook53 extends upward at a substantially ninety-degree angle relative to thelongitudinal axis of hook arm 48 as shown in FIG. 4. Vertical portion 57has a length ranging from approximately 5 to 10 centimeters and,preferably, approximately 7 centimeters. The upper leg 58 of cee-shapedcoupling hook 48 also extends towards frame 41 along a longitudinal axiswhich is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of couplinghook arm 48 for a distance ranging from 4 to 8 centimeters and,preferably, for approximately 5 centimeters as shown in FIGS. 4-6.

[0034] A drawbar bracket 61 is welded or secured in any otherappropriate manner to each side of the proximal portion of main member46 for coupling hook arm 48 thereto as shown in FIGS. 4-10. Each bracket61 is secured to main member 46 at an approximate distance ranging from25 to 50 centimeters rearward of the distal end of frame member 42.Drawbar bracket 61 is preferably constructed of a material similar tothat of drawbar 48 and is sized in order to extend inferiorly and at asubstantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of main member 46 bya distance of approximately 5 to 10 centimeters and, preferably,approximately 7 centimeters. The most dependent portion 62 of eachbracket 61 is provided with a transverse bore 63 extending therethrough.Bores 63 are transversely aligned with one another below main member 46when brackets 61 are mounted thereto. Proximal end 49 of drawbar 48 isdisposed below main member 46 and between brackets 61 so that bores 52and 63 are transversely aligned whereby a hinge or swivel pin 64 whichis sized to be frictionally disposed in aligned bores 52 and 63 is usedto swivelably couple drawbar 48 to main member 46.

[0035] A drawbar guide 66 preferably constructed of material similar tothe material of used for bracket 61 is welded or otherwise appropriatelysecured to the distal end of main member 46 as seen in FIG. 4. Guide 66is provided with symmetrical arms 67 having distal extremities 68. Arms67 are sized and configured to extend below and at a substantially rightangle to the longitudinal axis of main member 46 by a distance rangingfrom approximately 10 to 20 centimeters and, preferably, approximately12 centimeters. Thus configured, a slot or channel 69 is providedbetween arms 67 and extends from main member 46 to the distalextremities 68 of arms 67. When drawbar 48 is coupled to main member 46by swivel pin 64, a segment of distal extremity 51 of drawbar 48proximal to coupling hook 53 is slidably disposed in channel 69 as shownin FIG. 4.

[0036] Vertical movement of drawbar 48 within channel 69 is regulated orcaused by lifting member 73. Lifting member 73 is preferably comprisedof a conventional hydraulic cylinder 74 having proximal and distal ends76 and 77 and a lifting arm 78 having proximal and distal extremities 79and 81. Proximal end 76 of cylinder 74 is conventionally coupled to oneexternal side of main member 46 distal to hinge 61. Proximal extremity79 of lifting arm 78 is hydraulically coupled to distal end 77 ofcylinder 74 and extends downwardly and distally thereof. Distalextremity 81 of lifting arm 78 is appropriately secured to proximal end49 of drawbar 48 thereby completing the coupling of drawbar 48 to mainmember 46.

[0037] As hereinbefore described, the proximal portion of main member 46is slidably, concentrically disposed within distal end 44 of framemember 42. A heavy duty spring member 82 constructed of a suitablematerial and provided with an appropriate tension is concentricallydisposed around the outer proximal portion of main member 46 and limitsinward motion of main member 46 within frame member 42 by biasing orurging main member 46 into full extension away from frame member 42. Theproximal end of spring 82 is retained on main member 46 by distal end 44of frame member 42. The distal end of spring 82 is retained at theappropriate position on main member 46 by dependent portions 62 ofdrawbar hinges 61 as well as by a restraining member or pin 83 mountedin an appropriate manner on the top of main member 46 as shown in FIG.4. In order to limit the distal or rearward movement of main member 46,it can be sized so that the proximal end thereof is also provided with aflange, pins or another conventional modification (not shown). Distalend 44 of frame member 42 is provided with a correspondingcircumferential, inwardly extending collar (not shown) by which theflange or pin on proximal end of main member 46 prevents main member 46from sliding distally, completely out of frame member 42.

[0038] Hook assembly 37 further comprises a chock member 84 constructedof metal or other similar material, having proximal and distalextremities 86 and 87 and extending along a longitudinal axis. Chockmember 84 is sized and configured so as to be concentrically, slidablyor telescopically disposed within hollow core 47 of main member 46 asshown in FIGS. 4-10. Thus, the cross-sectional dimensions of chockmember 84 are slightly less than the corresponding dimensions of mainmember 46. In addition, chock member 84 can either be solid or tubular.If tubular, the end of distal extremity 87 is provided with a cap, plugor other device (not shown) with which the distal end of chock member 84is occluded.

[0039] During coupling and uncoupling of vehicles 27 and 32 or vehicles32 and 33, proximal (forward) to distal (rearward) movement of chockmember 84 within main member 46 is regulated by several means. Forwardmovement of chock member 84 is opposed or restrained by a chock spring88 which is constructed of any suitable material such as metal, extendsalong a longitudinal axis and is coaxially disposed within hollow core47 of main member 46. Proximally, chock spring 88 is seated against acircumferential, inwardly-extending collar or lip 89 which isconventionally mounted or integrally formed within main member 46.Distally, chock spring 88 abuts up against the end of proximal extremity86 of chock member 84. Chock spring 88 is provided with an appropriatetension in order to urge chock member 84 in a rearward direction withinmain member 46. Distal extremity 87 of chock member 84 also carries oneor more conventional chock stop pins 91 appropriately secured thereto bywhich forward movement of chock member 84 within main member 46 islimited as shown in FIG. 6. In addition, means (not shown) similar tothat carried by the proximal end of main member 46 and distal end 44 offrame member 42 which prevent chock member 84 from sliding distally,completely out of main member 46 can be provided by sizing proximalextremity 86 of chock member 84 accordingly.

[0040] Forward movement of chock member 84 is also regulated andcoordinated with movement of drawbar 48 during coupling and uncoupling.In this regard, a chock member restraining pin 92 is provided forlimiting forward movement of chock member 84. Restraining pin 92 isconstructed of an appropriate metal such as steel and is mounted withand coupled to means for deploying it in order to restrain chock member84. Thus, a housing 93 is secured atop main member 46 at an appropriateposition along the longitudinal axis thereof. Housing 93 is also made ofan appropriate metal or plastic and is sized and configured so that itencloses and provides the frame which supports pin 92 and a conventionalswitch (not shown), such as a solenoid mechanism, pneumatic or hydrauliccylinder which is coupled to and by which pin 92 is activated. Solenoidswitch is conventionally configured to be remotely controlled by theoperator of lead vehicle 27 during the coupling and un-coupling processas hereinafter described. Within housing 93, pin 92 is disposed at asubstantially right angle relative to the longitudinal axis of mainmember 46. The wall of main member 46 is provided with a transverse bore(not shown) situated beneath housing 93, extending through the wall andthrough which pin 92 extends into hollow bore 47 of main member 46 uponactivation of the switch. Pin 92 is appropriately sized and configuredso that, when fully extended into hollow bore 47 with proximal extremity86 of chock member 84 being disposed rearward of pin 92, chock member 84is prevented from moving forward within main member 46.

[0041] Movement of drawbar 48 is coupled to movement of chock member 84by a limit switch 94 mounted in a switch housing 96 on the external wallof main member 46 (see FIG. 4). Beneath housing 96 the wall of mainmember 46 is provided with a small transverse bore (not shown) extendingtherethrough and through which limit switch 94 extends into hollow bore47 of main member 46 at an appropriate position between collar 89 andretaining pin 92 as seen in FIG. 4. Switch 94 is, preferably, aconventional solenoid or other appropriate mechanism which iselectrically coupled to lifting cylinder 74 so that when switch 94 isactivated, for example by latch assembly 38 as hereinafter described,cylinder 74 causes lifting arm 78 to be withdrawn into cylinder 74thereby causing angular movement of drawbar 48 towards main member 46.Switch 94 can also be configured to be controlled remotely by theoperator of lead vehicle 27 during the coupling and un-couplingmaneuvers as hereinafter described. For remote operation, both theswitch controlling restraining pin 92 and the limit switch 94 arecoupled through a conventional service bay (not shown) appropriatelysituated on lead vehicle 27 to controls (not shown) conveniently locatedwithin the cab of lead vehicle 27.

[0042] Coupling means 36 includes latch assembly 38 which, during thecoupling process, is designed to couple or mate with hook assembly 37.Latch assembly 38 is mounted to front end 28 of trailing vehicle 32 asseen in FIGS. 4 and 5. More specifically, latch assembly 38 comprises anelongate plate 101 having forward and rear portions 102 and 103 andbeing constructed of a strong, durable material such as metal. Rearportion 103 is conventionally secured to or constructed integral withthe front bumper or frame 104 of vehicle 32 and, preferably, is sized inorder to extend laterally along substantially the entire width of thefront of vehicle 32 as shown in FIG. 5. Thus, plate 101 has a widthranging from approximately 130 to 200 centimeters and, preferably,approximately 160 centimeters. Plate 101 extends along a longitudinalaxis in a forward direction from vehicle 32 for a length ranging fromapproximately 10 to 20 centimeters and, preferably, approximately 12centimeters.

[0043] Forward end 102 of elongate plate 101 is provided with adownwardly extending cee-shaped latch member 106 preferably formedintegral with plate 101 as seen in FIG. 4. Latch member 106 isconfigured to be the complement or mate of coupling hook 53 so that eachleg of latch member 106 is provided with a cross-sectional configurationsimilar to that of each corresponding leg of coupling hook member 53. Inthis regard, upper leg 107 of latch 106 is continuous and integral withforward end 102 of plate 101. The concave portion 108 of latch 106 isconfigured to face frame 104 of trailing vehicle 32. As such, the backor vertical rib portion 109 of cee-shaped latch member 106 extendsdownward at a substantially ninety-degree angle relative to thelongitudinal axis of plate 101 for a length ranging from approximately 2centimeters to 6 centimeters and, preferably approximately 3centimeters. More importantly, as hereinbefore described, concaveportion 108 of latch member 106 is sized and shaped to mate with concaveportion 56 of coupling hook 53 during coupling of vehicles 27 and 32.Thus, the lower leg 111 of latch 106 also extends towards frame 104 ofvehicle 32 along a longitudinal axis which is substantially parallel tothe longitudinal axis of plate 101 for a distance ranging fromapproximately 2 centimeters to 6 centimeters and, preferably,approximately 4 centimeters as shown in FIG. 4.

[0044] The inferior or underneath face 112 of lower leg 111 of latch 106is provided with means 113 for correcting lateral misalignment of hookand latch assemblies 37 and 38 occurring during the coupling process.Two symmetrically situated pawls 114 are swivelably coupled tounderneath face 112 as shown in FIG. 10. Pawl 114 or elongate arm 114 ispreferably constructed of metal or other appropriate material having anappropriate crosssectional configuration. Extending along a longitudinalaxis which is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis ofplate 101, arm 114 has lateral and medial extremities 116 and 117 and alength ranging from approximately 5 to 15 centimeters, preferablyapproximately 10 centimeters. Lateral extremity 116 is secured to face112 by a conventional swivel or hinge pin 118. A pawl spring 119provided with the appropriate tension is mounted to face 112 in front ofmedial extremity 117 of arm 114 as seen in FIG. 10. Spring 119 biasesarm 114 in a rearward direction by urging arm 114 to swivel around pin118. Rearward motion of arm 114 is limited by a stop peg 121 formed of asuitable material and secured to face 112 in a conventional manner. Peg121 is appropriately positioned along the longitudinal axis of arm 114and is also appropriately set off the axis in a rearward direction. Thusconfigured, arm 114 is provided with an operative angular range ofmotion for controlling alignment of vehicles 27 and 32 during couplingas hereinafter described.

[0045] Means 122 for permitting passengers or other non-human freight orcargo to move or be moved from one vehicle 22 to the other when coupledtogether during travel on the roadway 23 are carried by all vehicles 22.Front end 28 of bus is provided with a conventional passenger door (notshown). Rear end 29 of bus 22 is provided with a conventional flexiblepassageway 122 similar to the type used with extended, multi-car busesor passenger trains. Secured to the outside of rear end 29, passageway122 encircles or encloses a door (not shown) through which passengerscan enter passageway 122 for transfer from one bus 22 to another.

[0046] Transportation system 21 also includes means for guiding 123 andcontrolling the speeds of vehicles 22 during approach to one another,throughout the coupling process and during entrained travel thereafter.In one preferred embodiment, a servo-mechanism 123, including an imagingsystem 124 in the form of one or more video cameras or monitors 124 iscarried by vehicle 22. Servo-mechanism 123 also includes a laser and/orradar guidance system 126 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. Thus, forcontrolling the coupling process, video monitor 124 and laser and/orradar 126 are mounted on front 28 and rear 29 of vehicle 22, preferablyabove latch and hook assemblies 37 and 38 respectively. Laser and/orradar 126 can be configured to measure the distance between couplingvehicles 22 up to hundreds of times per second and the relative speedsof the same up to several times per second. Video monitors 124 captureimages of front and rear ends 28 and 29 of vehicles 22 throughout thecoupling process.

[0047] Servo-mechanism 123 also includes means for registering 123 oneor more markers 127 which have been secured to roadway 23 in anyappropriate manner as seen in FIG. 1. Markers 127 can be in the form oflaser- and/or radar-reflecting objects, a continuous line or,preferably, a combination thereof applied to roadway 23 in a patterncorresponding to the path of travel thereon. By providing vehicle 22with additional side-mounted video monitors 124 and lasers and/or radars126 and employing them as hereinbefore described the distance betweenvehicles 22 and a demarcated area of roadway 23 can be constantlyevaluated in response to which travel of entrained vehicles 27 and 32can also be guided and controlled.

[0048] Servo-mechanism 123 can be configured to effect semi- or completeautomation of the entire coupling and uncoupling process, entrainedtravel of buses 22 or any portion thereof. In this regard, a computersystem 128 is strategically and conveniently placed within the cab ofvehicle 22 and utilized when vehicle 22 functions as lead vehicle 27.Input from systems 124 and 126 is directed to computer 128 which isprogrammed with software coupling computer 128 to speedometer 131 and toservomotors 132, 133 and 134 for controlling speed (acceleration 132 andbraking 133) and steering 134 of vehicle 22 as seen in FIGS. 11 and 12.In addition, computer 128 in lead vehicle 27 can be enabled tocommunicate with and control computers 128 in trailing vehicles 22 bymeans of conventional wireless technology. In this manner,servo-mechanism 123 is also capable of providing remote control meansfor partially or completely operating vehicles 22.

[0049] When serving as lead vehicle 27, in addition to being the primaryuser of guiding means 123, vehicle 22 carries means for propelling 128trailing vehicle 32 during travel together. Thus, bus 22 is providedwith the engine 128 and fuel capacities required to tow a train orseries of vehicles 22 an appropriate distance for an appropriateduration prior to refueling. Vehicle 22 can also be adapted for intransit re-fueling from a fuel tanker.

[0050] Operation and use of transportation system 21 of the presentinvention can now be described in conjunction with the accompanyingfigures as follows. Let it be assumed that a transit authority hasdecided to establish a mass transportation system within itsjurisdiction and has selected transportation system 21 of the presentinvention. In preparation therefore, markers 127 are applied to roadways23 to be used with system 21. Buses 22 are purchased and/or retrofittedas necessary in order to be sufficiently adapted for use with system 21as hereinbefore described. Employees are hired and trained to operatebuses 22 during conventional use and throughout the coupling process. Anoperating plan is promulgated throughout the communities to be served bysystem 21. Included in the operating plan are itineraries and schedulesfor lead vehicles 27 as well as subsidiary routes and times for buses 22feeding into main roadways 23 in order to be entrained with leadvehicles 27.

[0051] Let it further be assumed that preparations have been completedand transit system 21 is operational. At the beginning of a dailyschedule, lead vehicle 27 is provided with an operator who, whilepicking up passengers along the route, drives and directs bus 27 in aconventional manner from the main terminal at the transit authority tofirst lane 24 of primary roadway 23. Upon entering roadway 23, theoperator accelerates as necessary, moves into lane 24 and brings leadbus 27 up to an appropriate constant speed of travel up to and inaccordance with legal speed limits for high speed vehicular travel onopen highways. Preferably, barring unforseen technical problems,emergencies and except for driving bus 27 back to the terminal uponcompletion of the schedule, the operator of lead bus 27 maintains asubstantially constant speed and position of bus 27 within lane 24throughout the duration of its schedule. As hereinbefore described, thiscan be monitored and corrected based upon input from servo-mechanism123. Thus, constantly updated data from video monitors 124 and distancelasers and/or radars 126 assessing the position of bus 27 relative toroadway 23 markers 127 provides the operator of bus 27 and servo-motorwith the means to make adjustments, either manually, automatically or inconcert as seen in FIGS. 11 and 12. Indeed, computer 128 can also beenabled for remote control by the main terminal. In this manner, whileintermittently coupling and un-coupling to trailing buses 22, lead bus27 continually repeats its looped route. In the case of a route using anon-looped roadway, operator does have to slow and reverse direction ofbus 27 at each end of the route.

[0052] Let it now be assumed that while bus 27 is proceeding at asubstantially constant velocity in lane 24 of roadway 23 bus 32 has alsobeen provided with an operator, started its subsidiary route from theterminal and has picked up passengers. Based upon schedules and, wherehelpful, radio contact with bus 27 and/or the terminal, the operator ofbus 32 proceeds to main roadway 23 in anticipation of meeting andcoupling with bus 27. Accelerating to an appropriate velocity, bus 32 ismerged onto roadway 23 and into lane 25 as seen in FIG. 1. Adjustingaccordingly, the operator of bus 32 next merges vehicle 32 into lane 24,positioning it behind bus 27. Once bus 32 has approached within anapproximate distance of rear 29 of bus 27, for example, approximately100 feet, the operator of bus 32 adjusts the speed so that it becomessubstantially equivalent to that at which bus 27 is traveling.

[0053] At this juncture, the operator of bus 32 gives notice that bus 32is prepared to couple with bus 27. This can be accomplished by one ormore of several maneuvers. Vehicle 22 can be fitted with external signallights at front and rear 28 and 29 (not shown) which can be activated bythe operator of trailing bus 32, thus indicating to the operator ofleading bus 27 the readiness of bus 32 to couple. Alternatively or inaddition thereto, radio communication can be used between operators ofleading and trailing vehicles 27 and 32 and the terminal to coordinatecoupling processes throughout the transit system grid.

[0054] Once operators of leading and trailing vehicles 27 and 32acknowledge that both are prepared to couple, preparation for the finalstages of the coupling process can be made. In this regard, if notalready online, computers 128 on buses 27 and 32 are booted. All videomonitors 124 and distance lasers and/or radars 126 on buses 27 and 32are switched on. Radio communication between operators of leading andtrailing vehicles 27 and 32 can also be instituted or maintained. Inaddition, the operator of lead vehicle 27 confirms via the controls inthe cab of bus 27 that limit switch 94 has been activated and that chockmember restraining pin 92 has been switched into the retracted positionthereby leaving hollow bore 47 of main member 46 unimpeded.

[0055] In the case of a manually directed procedure, after the foregoingpreparations have been completed the operator of trailing bus 32gradually accelerates, inching front 28 of bus 32 closer to rear 29 ofbus 27 while adjusting the speed of and guiding bus 32 as necessary,based upon constant input from guiding means 123. When front 28 of bus32 contacts rear 29 of bus 27, rib portion 109 of latch member 106 oflatch assembly 38 strikes distal extremity 87 of chock member 84 whichis thereby driven forward within hollow core 47 of main member 46 asshown in FIGS. 4 and 6. As proximal extremity 86 of chock member 84slides forward, its motion is controlled and limited by chock spring 88as hereinbefore described. When proximal extremity 86 of chock member 84trips activated limit switch 94, drawbar 48 is caused to move upwardtowards main member 46 and into a substantially horizontal position asshown in FIG. 6. At this point, coupling hook 53 of drawbar 48 hasloosely engaged latch member 106 of latch assembly 38 but is notsecurely coupled thereto. Observing the foregoing on video monitors 124,the operator of trailing bus 32 gradually decelerates his vehicle 32thereby causing latch assembly 38 to move slightly rearward of hookassembly 37 and to temporarily release its pressure against distalextremity 87 of chock member 84. With the deceleration, coupling hook 53and latch member 106 become more closely mated as seen in FIG. 8. Inaddition, chock spring 88 is enabled to drive the proximal extremity 86of chock member 84 distal to restraining pin 92. Upon video confirmationthat this has occurred, the operator of leading bus 27 activates theswitch for pin 92 causing it to be extended into hollow bore 47 of mainmember 46, thus securing chock member 84 in place. This maneuver secureslongitudinal coupling of hook and latch assemblies 37 and 38. It shouldbe appreciated that, in addition or as an alternative to videoconfirmation that proximal extremity 86 of chock member 84 has beendriven distal to restraining pin 92, other appropriate means such as amechanical or electrical switches can be utilized for confirmationthereof.

[0056] Securing lateral alignment of leading and trailing vehicles 27and 32 is the final step in the coupling process. By constantlyevaluating input from guiding means 123 and, in particular, by viewinginput from video monitors 124 on rear 29 of lead vehicle 27 and front 28of trailing vehicle 32, the operator of vehicle 32 begins to slowly,laterally align his vehicle with leading vehicle 27. In so doing,coupling hook 53 is caused to slide medially along lower leg 111 towardsthe center of latch 106. As hook 53 slides medially, it contacts medialextremity 117 of pawl 114 closest to it. Continued medial movement ofhook 53 forces pawl 114 to swivel forward thereby compressingcorresponding pawl spring 119. Once hook 53 slides medially off of pawl114, compressed pawl spring 119 urges pawl 114 back into its fullyrearward position thereby limiting lateral travel of hook 53 in theopposite direction. Moreover opposite pawl 114, which has remainedbiased into its fully rearward position by corresponding pawl spring119, prevents further travel of hook 53 in the direction from which ithas come thereby locking hook 53 into a central position betweensymmetrically extended pawls 114 as shown in FIG. 10. Secure coupling isnow complete. Trailing bus 32 either turns off or idles its engine whileit is propelled and guided by lead vehicle 27 during coupling thereto.Thereafter, passageway 122 is secured between coupled vehicles 27 and 32enabling passengers to move from one bus 22 to another.

[0057] In the case of semi- or fully automated coupling, servo-mechanism123 automatically adjusts speed and steering of vehicles 27 and 32 byuse of servo-motors 132-134 as hereinbefore described. In the case ofremote automated coupling, servo-mechanism 123 is operated by the mainterminal.

[0058] It should be appreciated that, in addition to the foregoingpreferred embodiment, other variations and embodiments of the couplingassembly are considered within the purview of the present invention.

[0059] In order to uncouple trailing bus 32 from the train the couplingsteps are, essentially, simply reversed. Thus, once operators of buses27 and 32 acknowledge their readiness to uncouple (by communicating withradio, computer or other signaling means), the engine of trailing bus 32is started if necessary. The operator of leading bus 27 activates theswitch for pin 92 causing it to be retracted out of hollow bore 47 ofmain member 46 and releasing chock member 84. If not done earlier, theoperator of lead bus 27 de-activates limit switch 94. In the case of amanual procedure, the operator of trailing bus 32 subsequentlyaccelerates slightly whereby latch member 106 urges chock member 84against chock spring 88. In so doing, latch member 106 and coupling hook53 become partially dis-engaged by becoming un-mated. Drawbar 48 is thuspermitted to passively rotate downward, away from latch assembly 38whereupon trailing bus 32 can decelerate, pull away from leading bus 27out of first lane 24 and merge into lane 25. From that position, bus 32is able to exit main roadway 23 in order to complete one or moresubsidiary routes assigned to it. The un-coupling process may also beautomated by essentially reversing the manner in which servo-mechanism123 is employed in the coupling process.

[0060] It should be appreciated that, with linear configuration 35, onemethod for un-coupling a trailing bus 32 which is leading other buses 33and 22 would be as follows. The initial un-coupling procedure for bus 32from leading bus 27 would be un-changed. In addition, trailing bus 33would un-couple from bus 32 by a similar procedure and subsequentlyre-couple to leading bus 27 by effecting a similar coupling procedure.During these maneuvers, bus 33 would temporarily serve as a lead vehiclefor any additional buses entrained behind it.

[0061] Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 13and 15-16. Transportation system 221 is similar to system 21. Thus,identical numbers are used for elements common to both systems 21 and221.

[0062] In addition to including substantially all elements of system 21,system 221 comprises coupling or cooperative means 222 carried by eachvehicle 22 for coupling an additional vehicle 223 in a parallelconfiguration or orientation 224 thereto. More specifically, vehicle 22carries an elongate arm apparatus 226 which extends substantiallyparallel to roadway 23 along a longitudinal axis which is at asubstantially right angle relative to the longitudinal axis of vehicle22. Arm 226 is capable of assuming extended and retracted positions 227and 228 which are lateral and apposed to vehicle 22 respectively. Thefront end of vehicle 223 is provided with latch assembly 38 identical tothat provided for front end 28 of vehicle 22.

[0063] Arm 226 further comprises inboard, intermediate and outboardmembers 229, 231 and 232. Outboard member 232 is sized and shaped to beconcentrically and slidably or telescopically disposed withinintermediate member 231 and intermediate member 231 is configured to besimilarly disposed within inboard member 229 as seen in FIGS. 15 and 16.

[0064] Inboard member 229 includes upper and lower elongate tubular railelements 233 and 234 constructed of an appropriate material such assteel. Each inboard rail element 233 and 234 has proximal and distalextremities 236 and 237, a length ranging from approximately 60 to 120inches, preferably approximately 96 inches and a width ranging from 30to 50 inches, preferably approximately 40 inches. Rail element 233 and234 is rectangular in cross-section with a width ranging fromapproximately 3 to 8 inches and, preferably, approximately 5 inches. Oneface of each inboard rail element 233 and 234 carries a slot 235extending the length thereof. Proximal extremity 236 of upper inboardrail element 233 is mounted to the starboard side of front end 28 ofvehicle 22 with slot 235 facing downward and at a distance above theground ranging from 6 to 18 inches and, preferably, approximately 12inches. Lower inboard rail element 234 is mounted to vehicle 22 withslot 235 facing upper rail element 233 and at approximately 40 to 60inches below upper rail element 233. Each inboard rail element 233 and234 is coupled to vehicle 22 in a conventional, appropriate mannerwhereby arm 226 is rendered capable of withstanding buffeting forcessustained during travel on roadway 23 while remaining securely in anoperative position. In this regard proximal extremity 236 of inboardmember 229 is secured to vehicle 22 with spring or other universalcoupling means (not shown) for accommodating excessive torquing forcesin all directions during travel.

[0065] Intermediate member 231 similarly includes upper and lowerelongate tubular rail elements 238 and 239 each having proximal anddistal extremities 241 and 242. Preferably, each intermediate railelement 238 and 239 is constructed by welding or otherwise appropriatelysecuring together the non-slotted faces of two elements similar to thoseused in constructing inboard member 229 as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16.

[0066] Outboard member 232 is a tubular structure having proximal anddistal extremities 243 and 244 and constructed of steel or any otherappropriate material. Preferably having a length and width substantiallyequivalent to that of inboard rail elements 233 and 234, outboard memberhas a rectangular in shape cross-section with upper and lower faces 246and 247, each of which is provided with a longitudinal slot 235extending the length thereof as hereinbefore described. The depth ordistance between upper and lower faces 246 and 247 of outboard member232 corresponds to slightly less than the distance between upper andlower rail elements 238 and 239 of intermediate member 231. By extrudingor otherwise providing upper and lower partition shelves 248 and 249within hollow core 251 of outboard member 232, a channel or track 252 isprovided adjacent and bounded by each internal face 246 and 247 thereof.Shelves 248 and 249 are structured so that each track 252 of outboardmember 232 has a configuration identical to channel or track 252 formedwithin each rail element 233, 234, 238 and 239.

[0067] Guide wheels 253 are provided for slidably coupling inboard,intermediate and outboard members 229, 231 and 232 to one another. Guidewheel 253 is constructed of steel or other appropriate material and isshaped and sized in order to be rotatably and slidably disposed withinchannel or track 252. To that end, wheel 253 is rotatably coupled to astem or axle 254. Stem 254 is appropriately fixed within track 252 andextends at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of arm226 out of slot 235 so that guide wheel 253 is mounted on axle 254immediately adjacent to and outside of slot 235. Distal extremity 237 ofeach inboard rail element 233 and 234 is provided with one stem 254 andwheel 253. Each proximal and distal extremity 241 and 242 ofintermediate rail elements 238 and 239 is provided with stem 254 andguide wheel 253 in opposing tracks 252. Thus, proximal extremity 241 ofupper intermediate rail element 238 carries stem 254 in track 252 facingupper inboard rail element 233 while distal extremity 242 carries stem254 in track 252 facing lower inboard rail element 234. Lowerintermediate rail element 239 is provided with the symmetricalconfiguration of guide wheels 253. Thus, wheels 253 carried by inboardmember 229 are disposed within adjacent corresponding tracks 252 ofintermediate member 231 and vice-versa for wheels 253 carried inproximal extremities 241 of intermediate rail elements 238 and 239 asseen in FIGS. 15 and 16. Guide wheels 253 and stems 254 are similarlymounted to proximal extremity 243 of outboard member 232. As such,wheels 253 carried by distal extremities 242 of intermediate railelements 238 and 239 are disposed within track 252 of outboard member232 while wheels 253 carried by proximal extremity 243 of outboardmember 232 are disposed within track 252 of intermediate member 231.

[0068] Distal extremity 244 of outboard member 232 is coupled to asupport assembly 256 for supporting arm 226 during travel on roadway 23as seen in FIGS. 15-16. Support assembly 256 comprises a head tube 257which is constructed of a material similar to that of outboard member232. Head tube 257 has a length which is approximately equal to thedepth of outboard member 232, a cross-sectional diameter ranging from 20to 40 centimeters and, preferably, approximately 30 centimeters and awall thickness ranging from 1 to 2 centimeters and, preferably,approximately 1.5 centimeters. A caster assembly 258 including a supportwheel 258 with a conventional rubber tire and a wheel frame 259 in whichwheel 258 is rotatably mounted are conventionally, swivelably coupled tohead tube 257. Caster assembly 258 can be provided with means (notshown) for controlling the amount of swivel wheel frame 259 and wheel258 are permitted during operation. Head tube 257 is appropriatelysecured to the lateral end of outboard member 232 by any appropriatemeans such as by being welded or bolted thereto.

[0069] Means 261 for extending and retracting arm 226 is coupled tovehicle 22 and distal outboard member 232. Extending and retractingmeans 261 preferably includes a conventional hydraulic cylinder 261appropriately secured to the starboard side of front end 28 of vehicle22 and distal extremity 244 of outboard member 232 as seen in FIGS. 15and 16.

[0070] Coupling means 222 further comprises a conventional bracket 262or other appropriate means for securing hook assembly 37 thereto. Thus,the mid-section of outboard member 232 is provided with an appropriatebracket 262 to which hook assembly 37 is mounted.

[0071] Arm 226 can be operated manually or automatically during thecoupling and un-coupling process. In this regard, electrical coupling ofhydraulic cylinder 261 to controls (not shown) located in the cab oflead vehicle 27 is as hereinbefore described. For automatic and remoteoperation of arm 226, hydraulic cylinder 261 is appropriately coupled toservo-mechanism 123.

[0072] Secondary or additional means 263 for permitting passengers ornon-human freight or cargo to move or be moved from vehicle 22 tovehicle 223 when coupled together during travel on roadway 23 is carriedby vehicle 22 in the form of a conventional flexible passageway 263similar to that carried by rear end 29 of vehicle 22. Passageway 263 issecured to the starboard side of vehicle 22 rearward of arm 226. Theside of vehicle 223 is provided with a conventional passenger doorsimilar to that carried by front end 28 of vehicle 22 which couples withpassageway 263 for passenger and/or freight transfer between vehicles 22and 223 as seen in FIG. 13.

[0073] Additional video monitors 124 and distance lasers and/or 126 aremounted on the starboard side of vehicle 22, arm 226 and on vehicle 223as shown in FIG. 13. These are appropriately coupled to controls invehicle 22 and to servo-mechanism 123. Vehicle 223 is similarly providedwith means of establishing radio contact with vehicle 22 and theterminal.

[0074] Operation and use of transportation system 221 can now bedescribed with the accompanying figures as follows. Let it be assumedthat system 221 has been in operation as hereinbefore described inconjunction with system 21. Let it be further assumed that the operatorof vehicle 223 has similarly merged onto roadway 23 and into lane 26 andthereafter wishes to couple in a parallel orientation to the linearlyentrained vehicle 22 traveling on roadway 23. While vehicle 22 proceedsat a substantially constant velocity in lane 24 of roadway 23, vehicle223 accelerates in lane 26 until it approaches within approximately 100feet of front 28 of vehicle 22 while remaining substantially parallelthereto. In the case of manual deployment, after appropriate signalingand/or radio communication between operators of vehicles 22 and 223, arm226 is extended lateral of vehicle 22, towards and in front of vehicle223. During extension and retraction of arm 226, caster assembly 258permits substantially passive steering and movement of wheel frame 259and support wheel 258 in order to accommodate lateral torque forcesplaced upon arm 226 and wheel 258. Coupling of latch assembly 38 onvehicle 223 to hook assembly 37 on bracket 262 of arm 226 is ashereinbefore described in conjunction with coupling of vehicles 22 ofsystem 21. After coupling to arm 226, arm 226 is pulled into theretracted configuration 228 so that vehicle 223 is directed from lane 26into lane 25 and immediately lateral of vehicle 22. Prior to uncoupling,arm 226 is, once again, extended laterally into the fully extendedconfiguration 227 thereby moving vehicle 223 back into lane 26.Un-coupling is subsequently effected as hereinbefore described.

[0075] In addition to automatic operation of arm assembly 226, theentire coupling and un-coupling process involving vehicles 22 and 223can be automated by use of servo-mechanism 123 in a manner consistentwith that of system 21.

[0076] Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 14.Transportation system 321 is similar to system 221. Thus, identicalnumbers are used for elements common to both systems 221 and 321.

[0077] System 321 includes substantially all elements of system 221except for linearly entrained vehicles 22 of system 221. In lieuthereof, system 321 is provided with at least one towing vehicle,trailer or dolly 322 which is capable of being linearly coupled toidentical dollies 322 and laterally coupled to drive vehicle 223. Morespecifically, towing dolly 322 comprises a frame 323 constructed of anappropriate heavy duty material such as tubular steel. Alternatively,frame 323 can be constructed of multiple i-beams or tubular segments,similar to scaffolding, coupled to one another as shown FIG. 17. Frame323 has a length ranging from approximately 20 to 80 feet, preferablyapproximately 30 feet, and a width ranging from approximately 7 to 12feet, preferably approximately 9 feet.

[0078] Dolly 322 carries a plurality of conventional drive assemblies324 by which it is supported and steered. Drive assembly 324 includes asteering sub-assembly 326 comprising a brace frame 327 to which aconventional wheel and tire unit 328 is rotatably coupled as shown inFIGS. 18-19. Brace frame 327 is swivelably coupled to frame 323 of dolly322 by a swivel housing 329 and swivel member or plate 331. Swivelhousing 329 is, preferably, a cylindrically shaped metal canister 329which is secured to frame 323 in any appropriate manner. Swivel member331, which is either secured to brace frame 327 or formed integraltherewith, is also constructed of an appropriate metal material and isconfigured to be concentrically and rotatably disposed within swivelhousing 329 by use of conventional races and bearings (not shown). Driveassembly 324 is also equipped with shock absorbers or springs 332 andthrust bearings (not shown) for accommodating vertical displacement ofwheel unit 328 during travel on roadway 23.

[0079] Lead towing dolly 324 can be provided with an independent powersource or drive mechanism 333. Drive motor 333 is mounted to brace frame327 or frame 323 of dolly 322 and conventionally coupled to wheel unit328 by use of independent, multiple right angle gear boxes 336 and driveshafts 337 as shown in FIGS. 18-19. Drive mechanism 333 can also beprovided with conventional means for braking 338 in the form of discbrakes 339 and brake calipers 341 suitably coupled to any one of anumber of elements of drive mechanism 333.

[0080] Towing dolly 322 can be manually, automatically or remotelyoperated by enabling servo-mechanism 123 in a manner consistent withthat of transportation systems 21 and 221. Thus, in order toautomatically steer towing dolly 322, steering sub-assembly 326 carriesa hydraulic steering cylinder (not shown) appropriately coupling braceframe 327 to frame 323 of dolly 322. Hydraulic cylinder, drive mechanism333 and braking means 338 are conventionally coupled to servo-mechanism123 as hereinbefore described. In this regard, dolly 322 is providedwith system hardware and computer software identical to that includedwith systems 21 and 221.

[0081] Drive mechanism 333 can also be configured with means for beingcoupled or connected to an external power source such as an electrifiedguide rail or wire member or system carried by roadway 23.Alternatively, towing dolly 323 can be coupled to lead vehicle 27 andpropelled thereby. Operation of system 321 is otherwise similar to thatof system 221.

[0082] It should be appreciated that variations and modifications of thepreferred embodiments disclosed herein are within the purview of thepresent invention. For example, trains carrying coupling arms can besubstituted for buses in the case of parallel coupling configurations.Additional substitutions can vary the type and number of linearlyentrained vehicles. Automobiles may be adapted to be linearly entrainedwith one another or with one or more buses or trains. Means establishedfor transferring or moving non-passenger cargo or freight between thevehicles can be adapted for either manual, semi-automatic or fullyautomated control. Such freight management can also be controlled anddirected remotely. In some cases, passenger travel between vehiclesbecomes unnecessary. Roadway 23 can also be provided with means forsemi- or fully automatically propelling and/or steering any train ofvehicles or towing dollies such as by use of a track, rail or trolleymechanism. In such an embodiment, the track, rail or trolley mechanismwould preferably be located immediately adjacent the fast lane of theroadway in either a separate, dedicated lane or shoulder specifictherefor. In the case of a rail, trolley or track utilized with a towingdolly for example, the dedicated lane could be constructed so that it issmaller than a conventional roadway lane as seen with dolly lane 24 inFIG. 14.

[0083] In addition, the support assembly for the coupling arm used withparallel coupling systems can be independently powered in order to moreefficiently handle forces sustained thereby during operation.Furthermore, a coupling arm can be provided which is capable ofretracting and folding alongside of the vehicle carrying it when not inuse.

[0084] From the foregoing, it is evident that a novel mass transitsystem has been described. The system of the present invention offers acost-effective, fuel-efficient, environmentally sound and user-friendlyalternative to existing mass transit systems. Capable of using adaptedvehicles in either a conventional manner, entrained together or bycombining these methods of use, the dual-mode transportation system ofthe present invention affords a transit authority the ability to expandand adapt to growing and changing needs of the communities it serves.

What is claimed is:
 1. A transportation system for use on a roadwayhaving first and second lanes comprising a lead vehicle adapted fortravel at high speeds on the roadway, a passenger vehicle adapted fortravel at high speeds on the roadway and means for coupling thepassenger vehicle to the lead vehicle while the lead vehicle and thepassenger vehicle are traveling at high speeds on the roadway so thatthe passenger vehicle travels with the lead vehicle on the roadway.
 2. Atransportation system as in claim 1 wherein the means includescooperative means carried by the lead vehicle and the passenger vehiclefor coupling the passenger vehicle to the lead vehicle while the leadvehicle and the passenger vehicle are traveling at high speeds on theroadway.
 3. A transportation system as in claim 2 wherein thecooperative means includes a hook and latch assembly.
 4. Atransportation system as in claim 2 wherein the passenger vehicle is anautomobile.
 5. A transportation system as in claim 2 wherein thepassenger vehicle is a bus.
 6. A transportation system as in claim 2wherein the lead vehicle and the passenger vehicle are each buses, apassageway carried by at least one of the buses for permitting passengertravel between the buses during travel on the roadway.
 7. Atransportation system as in claim 1 wherein the means includes a traileradapted for travel on the roadway and coupled to the lead vehicle,cooperative means carried by the trailer and the passenger vehicle forcoupling the passenger vehicle to the trailer while the lead vehicle andthe passenger vehicle are traveling at high speeds on the roadway.
 8. Atransportation system as in claim 7 wherein the trailer is for travel inthe first lane and includes an arm extendable sideways of the trailerinto the second lane, the cooperative means carried in part by the armfor permitting the passenger vehicle to couple to the arm in the secondlane.
 9. A transportation system as in claim 1 wherein the meansincludes a railcar adapted for travel on a railway disposed adjacent thefirst lane of the roadway, the railcar having a portion extending overthe first lane, cooperative means carried by the portion of the railcarand the passenger vehicle for coupling the passenger vehicle to therailcar while the lead vehicle and the passenger vehicle are travelingon the roadway.
 10. A transportation system for use on a roadwaycomprising first and second vehicles adapted for travel on the roadwayat variable speeds of up to at least speeds typical for high speedvehicular travel on open highways and a coupling assembly for couplingsaid first and second vehicles to one another while the first vehicle istraveling at any of said variable speeds.
 11. A transportation system asin claim 10 wherein the coupling assembly includes means for orientingsaid first and second vehicles in a linear configuration with respect toone another.
 12. A transportation system as in claim 10 wherein thecoupling assembly includes means for orienting said first and secondvehicles in a parallel configuration with respect to one another.
 13. Atransportation system as in claim 12 wherein said orienting meansincludes a member carried by and extendable lateral of said firstvehicle, said second vehicle being coupleable to said member in theextended configuration.
 14. A transportation system as in claim 12further including means for operating said first vehicle remotely.
 15. Atransportation system as in claim 14 wherein said remote operating meansincludes a guide member carried by the roadway and provided withelectrical power, means for electrically coupling the first vehicle tosaid guide member and a computer system for governing the flow ofelectricity from the guide member to the first vehicle.
 16. Atransportation system as in claim 10 further comprising means carried bythe first and second vehicles for permitting passengers to move betweenthe first and second vehicles when said first and second vehicles arecoupled.
 17. A transportation system as in claim 10 further comprisingmeans carried by the first and second vehicles for permitting freight tobe moved between the first and second vehicles when said first andsecond vehicles are coupled.
 18. A transportation system as in claim 10further including means carried by the first vehicle for propelling thesecond vehicle while said first and second vehicles are coupled.
 19. Atransportation system as in claim 10 further including means carried bythe first vehicle for guiding the second vehicle while said first andsecond vehicles are coupled.
 20. A transportation system as in claim 19wherein said guiding means includes means for registering one or moremarkers on the roadway and steering said first and second vehiclesrelative to said markers.
 21. A transportation system as in claim 20wherein said registering means includes a laser guidance system.
 22. Atransportation system as in claim 20 wherein said registering meansincludes a video-imaging system.
 23. A transportation system as in claim10 wherein said coupling assembly includes a hook and latch assembly.24. A transportation system as in claim 10 further including means forcontrolling said coupling assembly remotely.
 25. A transportation systemas in claim 24 wherein said remote control means includes a laserguidance system.
 26. A transportation system as in claim 24 wherein saidremote control means includes a video-imaging system.
 27. Atransportation system as in claim 10 further including rubber tirescarried by said first and second vehicles for supporting said vehiclesduring high speed travel on the roadway.
 28. A method for coupling firstand second vehicles to one another during travel on a roadway atvariable speeds of up to at least speeds typical for high speedvehicular travel on open highways by the use of coupling assembliescarried by said first and second vehicles, the method comprising thesteps of operating the first vehicle at a substantially constantvelocity on the roadway, operating and positioning the second vehiclebehind the first vehicle, accelerating the second vehicle until thecoupling assemblies contact one another and coupling said first andsecond vehicles together by securing said assemblies to one another. 29.A method as in claim 28 wherein the coupling step includes the step oforienting the first and second vehicles in a linear configuration withrespect to one another.
 30. A method as in claim 28 wherein the couplingstep includes the step of orienting the first and second vehicles in aparallel configuration with respect to one another.
 31. A method as inclaim 28 further including the step of controlling the coupling stepremotely.
 32. A method as in claim 28 further including the step ofpermitting passengers to move safely between the first and secondvehicles while said vehicles are coupled together.
 33. A method as inclaim 28 further including the step of permitting freight to be movedbetween the first and second vehicles while said vehicles are coupledtogether.